Indian Envoy meets Environment Minister

Indian High Commissioner to Dhaka Pranay Verma held a courtesy meeting with Environment, Forest and Climate Change Minister Abdul Awal Mintoo at the Secretariat on Wednesday, April 8.

The meeting discussed various aspects of increasing cooperation between Bangladesh and India in the environment and energy sectors.

After the meeting, Verma said he briefed the minister on India's progress and future plans in the renewable energy sector. He said India has set ambitious targets in this sector and has already achieved significant success in non-fossil fuel energy.

Discussions also focused on how Bangladesh and India can jointly enhance renewable energy capacity. The establishment of a carbon trading system and working together on international initiatives also received attention.

Verma invited Bangladesh to become a full member of the International Big Cat Alliance, noting that Bangladesh has already participated in the alliance's inaugural meeting.

Minister Mintoo said discussions also covered the possibility of importing hydropower from Nepal, with emphasis on increasing power transmission capacity through India.

He said while India is far ahead in renewable energy and carbon trading, Bangladesh has yet to establish a full framework. A Bangladeshi delegation has been invited to India for experience sharing.

The minister also said Bangladesh is currently associated with the International Big Cat Alliance but has not yet become a full member. India has formally invited Bangladesh to accept membership.